Known as a beach destination for years by European holidaymakers, Tunisia has a whole lot more to offer than its 650-mile coastline. So, from awesome historical sites to a burgeoning food and drink scene, here are a selection of places to see and things to do that you can’t afford to miss.
Beaches
Despite the array of options, perhaps it’s best to start with the most obvious. The beaches in Tunisia are stunning and it would be a shame to neglect them completely. Tunisia’s top resort is Hammamet, all pristine white buildings and bright blue sea. If you’ve had too much sun, you can take a stroll in the old town and explore the souks. If beaches are your thing, you might be just as happy on the island of Djerba, a picture-perfect sandy escape whose main town, Houmt Souk, also has great shopping.
History
There’s so much history in Tunisia it’s difficult to know where to begin. If you’re into classical history, then you’ll find it hard to resist a trip to Carthage. The city of the Phoenicians, once a major rival to Rome, was reduced to rubble during the Punic Wars. The ruins are located on the outskirts of Tunis.
In a similar vein, though far better preserved, is the ancient amphitheatre of El Djem, an enduring testament to Rome’s hold on Northern Africa. You can still walk the corridors, putting yourself in the shoes of the gladiators who fought thousands of years ago.
Culture
A paragraph on cultural opportunities in Tunisia can barely scratch the surface but lovers of contemporary art will find much to admire in Dar Am Taieb, a private collection located in Sousse. In Tunis, meanwhile, the Palais Kheireddine is full of artwork created by local artists, the majority of it dating from the time before the Arab Spring. Tunis is also home to the Bardo Museum, a palace which houses the world’s most renowned collection of mosaics.
Food and Drink
Tunisian cuisine is a fusion of Arabic, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and French influences. On the coast you’ll find fresh seafood, while in the Sahara region the fare is more rustic, with stews a real speciality. Although they’re not big on desserts, you’ll find an enormous selection of pastries and nutty cakes and sweets in every restaurant.
Nature
You’ll be hard pushed to find a better spot for bird-watching than the Ichkeul National Park with its thousands of migratory birds. Ichkeul itself is the last freshwater lake in North Africa; and species you’re likely to see include pink flamingos, geese, egrets, storks and ducks. While on the subject of nature, it’s worth mentioning that one of Tunisia’s growing sectors is the eco-industry. Why not take advantage of this development by taking part in a trek across the Sahara?
With so many things to see and do, Tunisia is a holiday destination that won’t disappoint. Companies like First Choice will help you to go and explore beautiful Tunisia.
Would you love to visit Tunisia?
Or have you had the pleasure of visiting there?
What do you love most about Tunisia?
Share your thoughts and comments with us.
Sounds beautiful! A great destination place =)
Hi Kimmy,
I know! Wouldn’t you just love to visit a magical place like Tunisia. I visited Istanbul, Turkey and toured Morocco, so Tunisia is next on my growing list of places to explore. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with me. I appreciate it.
I’m in if you’re in! How do their seasons compared to ours?
Hi Jane,
Yes, let’s do it! We did Brazil, now it’s time for a new adventure. Time to get more information! Thanks for hopping by and sharing your thoughts. I appreciate it.